Centennial college is Toronto's No. 1 community college. It offers lots of full time and part time programs including diploma, degree programs & also offers co-operative programs. Students of Co-operative programs can gain practical field experience with their college studies.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Applying for a post-secondary program and not being accepted is always a difficult moment. However, those students who are interested in taking hospitality degree but have not been accepted to the program of their choice now have another alternative at Centennial College. These students can apply for the Hospitality Foundations program, which was created specifically for those in need of a pathway for pursuing a career in hospitality, tourism and culture.

This hospitality and tourism offering is different from other Centennial College programs in a few ways. First and foremost, students can’t apply directly to its hospitality and tourism courses. Instead, they must advised and assisted to register by the Centennial College Assessment and Advising Centre. However, there are additional requirements to consider. Students must at least have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature applicant status (19 years or older). In addition, prior to registration, students must complete the Centennial College English skills assessment and score 130 or 131. In some cases, students’ skills assessment score will satisfy the requirements for their original program choice. Centennial College will notify them by sending an offer to their original program if there is still space available.

Aside from the hospitality and tourism courses of this offering, students are also given the opportunity to develop academic and professional skills and attitudes, which will facilitate success in their program of choice and eventual career. Among these skills are English fluency, including reading, writing, listening and speaking.In regards to specific attitudes, students get into the habit of reflective practice in order to continuously develop their communication competence in all language strands.

The Hospitality Foundations program offers communication and field preparation course such as Life Skills and Job Readiness (helps students develop learning skills and life skills that will help them to maximize their personal fulfillment); and Foundations: Developing College Communications (designed to assist students in upgrading their English skills in the four areas - reading, writing, speaking, and listening). Meanwhile, specific hospitality and tourism courses include: Geography and Tourism - Western Hemisphere (examines earth sciences such as land formations, time zones and climate. There will include a basic introduction to plate tectonics); Theory of Food Fundamentals (as good food is the foundation on which the restaurant industry is built, it is imperative that one understands how to not only produce good food, but to do so in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner. This course will introduce learners to the theoretical principles of food production); and more.

After two semesters, students complete the Hospitality Foundations program with an Ontario College Certificate. They are then prepared to transfer into the more advanced hospitality and tourism coursesof the program of their choice.

Did you know that all you need to apply to the Health Informatics program at Centennial College (officially known as Health Informatics Technology) is an interest in computer sciences and healthcare; at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older; compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent; and Math 11M or U, or 12C or U, or skills assessment, or equivalent?

“I decided to take this Health Informatics program because right now I am a personal support worker and I wanted to stay in the healthcare field and make a difference,” says a student enrolled in the program. “I found that this, as an emerging field, was one where I could do all that.” Students like this are exactly the types of people who will excel in the offering, according to Sity Safario, an instructor. “I recommend the Health Informatics program at Centennial College for anyone who is very much interested in software engineering but also wants to help people,” she says.

The Health Informatics program trains its students for an industry that deals with information, computer science and health care. It is concerned with the resources, devices and methods that optimize the acquisition, storage, retrieval, and use of information in health and biomedicine.

As such, during their three years worth of Health Informatics courses students focus on object-oriented software design methodologies, user-oriented interface design, structure of healthcare information systems, telehealth, data security and privacy in healthcare systems. They also learn about technologies such as C#, Java, J2EE, Oracle, MS-SQL Server, Unix/ Linux, Microsoft’s .NET, HTML/ XML, Rational/ WebSphere, Data warehousing and Data mining, and BI tools in healthcare systems and more. To complement theoretical learning, the offering includes two software development projects in the field of health informatics. These real world business applications require students to utilize all the technical, systems and business skills gained during their studies.

Among the specific health informatics courses included in this offering are: Network Technologies (theory classes cover all the fundamental information behind LANs, WANs and their technologies; lab classes introduce students to the hands on techniques to install, configure and troubleshoot a physical network environment); Telehealth (students explore the different types of telehealth applications as well as the legal and regulatory considerations involved in implementing a telehealth solution. Topics covered include an introduction to the different services targeted by telehealth initiatives and emphasis is placed on the unique challenges, relevant industry standards and the specific information technology needs of different telehealth programs to date); Software Testing and Quality Assurance (students are taught testing methodologies and inspection approaches integrated into the software development life cycle); and more.

Graduates of Health Informatics Technology go on to work as: applications developers, health data analysts, database developers, systems implementation specialists, record assistants and business/systems analysts. These professionals are able to analyze and model data, develop healthcare databases and apply different computer medical-imaging techniques. They are also able to use tools, algorithms and health informatics methods for hospitals, schools, healthcare agencies and public health departments.

Monday, February 27, 2012

You don't have to be a superhero to save the planet. If you're passionate about protecting the environment and want to make it a full-time career, pursuing an Environmental Protection Technician career is an excellent pathway. The career opportunities for this profession are multiplying and expected to continue growing. It is a critical job that helps protect the environment from harmful pollutants. As an environmental protection technician, you'll spend your days collecting samples from all kinds of sources (soil, gases, water) and test them to determine the level of toxicity they have absorbed and the type of pollution that they contain. You’ll then be required to interpret the results from the test and determine solutions to monitor and prevent levels of pollution at the testing site.

If this sounds like a path that's designed for you, you're ready to take the first step towards pursuing your dream job. To start off, you’ll want to take on a college program that provides you with the practical skills, so you’ll be confident in what you’re looking for and the results you uncover in the real world.

Centennial College offers an Environmental program that is two years long and is nationally accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB).

Once you're in the program, you'll jump right into career-related courses such as, Microbiology, Chemistry of Pollutants and Ecology. These courses will prepare you with everything you need to know about water/waster chemistry, toxicity testing, soil collection, conservation and materials handling, so you’ll be able to help maintain the environment’s delicate equilibrium.

College programs like this provide hands-on learning, so you'll be able to handle real-world projects right away. Alongside your regular courses, there are opportunities to participate in local conservation and restoration activities. You are also able to work towards industry-recognized certifications when you taken on Ontario Ministry of the Environment Operator in Training (OIT) and Water Quality Analyst (WQA) exams. After graduation, you’ll be certified as a technician and automatically meet the high standards of the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT).

If you're ready to start improving the environment around you and have a passion for science, find out more about what it takes to pursue this career path here.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

When we are driving our cars, we don't wonder if the engine is running properly or whether the tires need rotating. Usually, we realize these things with the help of automotive service technicians. Those who drive Chrysler models, have them inspected, maintained and repaired by trained Chrysler technicians. Their jobs include: diagnosing problems using Chrysler diagnostic equipment; performing repairs and preventive maintenance on engines, transmissions, electrical systems, brakes and tires. Now is a great time to join the Chrysler team, as this company is number two in volume, slightly edging out Ford Motor company (not including their Premier Automotive Group) and holding just more than 14 per cent of the market. If that's not enough to convince you, note that U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job growth in Automotive Service Technology to grow by 14 percent from 2006 through 2016.

The first step to becoming a Chrysler technician is to participate in a Chrysler apprenticeship, such as the one offered at Centennial College in Toronto. Taking two years to complete, the apprenticeship prepares students for careers as: automotive service technicians, service writers/ advisors, service managers, instructors/ professors and auto company representatives. To apply for the Automotive Service Technician Chrysler Co-op students must have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or General Educational Development (GED) or equivalent. They may also be required to present a resume and transcript for faculty review. Please consider that English proficiency and satisfactory results in a program admission session will also be considered during the admissions process. Lastly, applicants may be required to fill out a questionnaire.

In-school training is an essential part of this apprenticeship. Training takes place at Ontario's largest automotive training centre, Ashtonbee campus, which is fully equipped with the latest Chrysler equipment and tools. Successful students earn an Ontario College diploma, have eight months of practical, on-the-job, co-op training in a Chrysler dealership and complete their entire Ontario apprenticeship in-school curriculum within two years.

Not only do students participate in automotive training, they also take theoretical courses in business (Occupational Health & Safety, Employment Pre-Placement, Organizational Behavior, Communications for Professionals in the Automotive Industry, Fixed Operations Management). However, of course, the automotive course are just as important and include: Engine Systems (introduction into the principles of operation and the terms related to the internal combustion engine), Suspension/ Steering & Brake Systems (looks at course kinetic energy, handling dynamics, frames types and damage, friction, steering designs, and more); Workplace Practice and Procedures (five topic areas are covered: fasteners, bearing and seals, oxyacetylene operation, computer fundamentals); and many others, including a unique advanced electrical and electronics diagnosis course.

Students spend the first eight months of the program in school, eight months in co-op as a registered apprentice and a final eight months in school. The field part of their Chrysler apprenticeship allows them to apply what they have been learning and take away new knowledge from their employer. They also have a chance to network and interact with real customers.

Friday, February 17, 2012

It is often said that education is the key to success. In the past, those who could not attend post-secondary school for a variety of reasons didn't have many options. That is until Continuing Education programs became popular and opened up doors. Today, continuing education is similar to adult education, at least in being intended for adult learners. However, it is not normally considered to include basic instruction such as literacy, English language skills or programs such as vocational training or GED preparation. Instead, as the term suggests, it is assumed that the student already has an education and is simply continuing it. In Canada, continuing education involves enrollment in college/university credit-granting courses, often by students enrolled part-time.

One such Canadian institution to offer a Continuing Education option is Centennial College, which has nearly 22,000 learners each year in 160 programs that feature more than 1,200 courses and a 97 per cent learner satisfaction. This school's programs are designed to help students improve their skills, further their education, pursue a variety of interests and enable them to embrace new possibilities. In addition, the Continuing Education school at Centennial College provides experienced instructors who understand adult learning needs, offering flexible, learner-centered teaching methodologies; provides practical hands-on knowledge to place relevant theory into context and perspective; recognizes and respects both the level of maturity and work experience of its students; provides effective instructor to student ratio and an optimal classroom size enabling competent peer interaction.

All programs facilitated through the continuing education school have their own prerequisites and it's best to check each individual program's page to ensure that students have the necessary requirements to apply. It should also be noted that within certain programs there might be qualification requirements and costs for external accreditations, designations, certifications or recognitions. These are set by the granting bodies and not by Centennial College. In order to qualify for any of those external accreditations, designations, certification or recognition, students and graduates will need to follow the processes and meet the applicable requirements listed on the websites and materials of those external bodies.

In addition, those students who can't make it to campus but wish to attend the Continuing Education School can choose the Distance Learning option, which is conducted entirely online. This study option still allows students to enjoy similar in-person benefits of a physical classroom such as: a qualified and industry-experienced instructor, communication tools, discussion boards and forums, a sense of email access with their classmates, digital assignment capability, and more.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Construction and maintenance electricians enjoy working in a variety of career areas that include: service, installation, repairs sales and design. Of course, duties within each area of the field vary but all construction and maintenance electricians must know how to: read and interpret drawings, circuit diagrams and electrical code specifications to determine wiring layouts for new or existing installations; install, replace and repair lighting fixtures and electrical control and distribution equipment; splice, join and connect wire to fixtures and components to form circuits; test continuity of circuits using test equipment to ensure compatibility and safety of system following installation, replacement or repair; troubleshoot and isolate faults in electrical and electronic systems and remove and replace faulty components; and more.

To learn these skills, future construction and maintenance electricians can attend a program such as Centennial College's Electrician: Construction and Maintenance – Electrical Engineering Technician. This offering takes two years to complete and results in an Ontario College Diploma. Designed as a co-op program, it allows students to train as apprentices in the electrician trade while obtaining a two-year post secondary engineering technician diploma in the electrical engineering field. Those interested in becoming construction and maintenance electricians must first complete an application process, which includes possessing at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 years or older). In addition, applicants must have the English Grade 12 C or U or equivalent, or skills assessment as well as the Math Grade 11 M, C or U or Grade 12 M, C or U, or equivalent, or skills assessment. Lastly a questionnaire, resume and references to determine apprenticeship employability as well as an employer interview may be required.

The construction and maintenance electricians who attend this offering obtain a thorough grounding in electrical engineering sciences and skills, including electrical circuits, maintenance of electrical instruments or devices, operation of electrical motors and power transmission as used in the industry. This is achieved through a project approach that simulates actual workplace assignments. It also includes combining in-school theory and lab experience. Specific courses that students take to become construction and maintenance electricians include: Electrical Theory (familiarizes students with electrical fundamentals from the atomic structure to series, parallel and combination dc circuits by applying Ohm's and Kirchhoff's Laws); Installation Methods (designed to give students the knowledge and skills to work with: operation of common hand and power tools; install common switching devices, outlets and enclosures; correctly terminate conductors; demonstrate the installation procedures for non-metallic sheathed cable, armoured cable, mineral insulated cable, rigid conduits, flexible conduits, light tight conduits, electrical metallic tubing, electrical non-metallic tubing following all appropriate Canadian Electrical Code rules; and more); Ethics in Technology and the Environment (examines ethical issues governing social, technological and environmental policies, and the impact of their implementation); and many others.

These construction and maintenance electrician students spend eight months of the program time on a co-op placement arranged by the college. The hours earned during the co-op placement are counted towards the practical part of apprenticeship training. This experience not only allows for application of the skills learned in school but it is an opportunity for students to network while being compensated.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

In order to become a Law Clerk, you must have: knowledge of rules and procedures of law and government, proficiency in speaking and writing English language, knowledge of clerical procedures, effective personal and customer service, and quickly grasp things. All of these skills can be developed in a law clerk diploma program such as the one offered at Centennial College.

This two-year, four-semester program offers a theory of law combined with hands-on application of the theories taught. Those who wish to apply must have completed an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. In addition, they must have completed compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment, or equivalent and Math 11C, M or U, or 12C or U, or skills assessment, or equivalent. Possession of minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission.

In the program, a range of law courses, in conjunction with computer legal software courses, fully prepare students for employment in the legal profession. Among the specific courses within the Law Clerk are: Current Issues in Canadian Law, Corporate Law, Legal Research and Writing, Family Law, Computers for Law Clerks and more. To round out training provided on campus, students of the Law Clerk diploma offering partake in a work placement. “Our faculty members work with the students and meet with them individually to put together a wish list of what they would like to do for their work placement — whether it’s working for a law firm or a corporation or the government or in a courtroom setting. Our faculty then contacts the various employers, arranges the interview and the students are then working for the entire 15-week semester, four days a week,” says Patty-Ann Sullivan, coordinator of the Law Clerk diploma program.

In order to graduate, students must achieve an overall minimum GPA of 2.0, a minimum C grade average, a minimum C grade in COMM-170 and a minimum keyboarding speed of 40 words per minute. The Institute of Law Clerks of Ontario accredits the Law Clerk program.

Upon graduation from the Law Clerk program, responsibilities include: exploring and studying legal documents for determining causes of action, examining law of cases and facts, and preparing cases; preparing affidavits of documents, maintaining case correspondence and document files; researching analyzing law sources for preparing draft of briefs for approval, review, and advance use by attorneys screening petitions, motions and complaints filed to determine the litigant’s legal merit; advising the judge on the priority needs and status of assigned cases; setting up courtroom, recording equipment, and recording court proceedings; delivering subpoenas to parties and witnesses to action; maintaining retrieval and information storage services including legal search facilities and library; communicating and arbitrating dispute between different parties; helping judges in the translation of legal documents; and more.

Adam McDowell is a reporter for the National Post. After considering a number of journalism schools, Adam chose the post-graduate journalism program at Centennial College to start his career. “I would wholeheartedly recommend Centennial College to anyone looking for a career in journalism,” he says. “Among the program’s many strengths, credit has to be given, above all, to its dedicated and demanding instructors, who set high expectations for their students. [It’s] the best kind of preparation for a tough, competitive field.”

Adam’s testimonial highlights how dedicated the teachers in the undertaking are, but like he mentioned the program has many other strengths. First and foremost, this journalism program only takes two years to complete, which allows students to partake in intense and quick-paced study that is not much different from the real world of journalism. The area of study isn’t focus on one form of journalism, instead, students obtain the know-how to work at magazines, newspapers, TV, radio and even online.

More specifically, within the journalism program students: learn to write and tell stories in an energetic, dynamic and hands-on environment, led by a faculty of seasoned professionals and educators; develop a portfolio of published stories and photos as they apply their skills in a real newsroom, writing for an online publication and a community newspaper; develop new multi-platform and online skills for the evolving world of news reporting. These skills are achieved through specifically-developed courses that focus on topics such as: journalism design, news reporting, introduction to online news, journalism law and ethics, magazine/freelance journalism, advanced interviewing techniques, radio news, multiplatform journalism and many others.

As mentioned above, students obtain real-life experience by participating in the development of a community paper, called The East Toronto Observer and its online edition, The Toronto Observer. In addition, students of this journalism program gain access to extensive publishing, broadcast and interactive facilities at The Centre for Creative Communications campus. This allows them to practice in their own time. Once they have had a sample of what to expect from the field, students participate in a final semester 15-week placement. During this portion of Centennial College’s journalism school, students work alongside professional staff in a commercial media outlet or communications agency. To qualify for placement, a student must have passed every course required in previous semesters.

Centennial College’s fast-track journalism program requires applicants to submit an official transcript demonstrating proof of successful completion of a post-secondary diploma or degree program. Also considered will be applicants presenting a combination of partial post-secondary education (minimum of two years) and relevant work experience. In addition, students must either submit a portfolio of Journalism related work along with a resume and references (this should include 6 to 10 samples); or attend a program admission session where they will: complete a two-part writing test; submit a portfolio of six to eight pieces that may include academic essay extracts or creative writing; and submit an up-to-date resumé.

Companies that have hired Centennial College journalism program graduates include: NOW Magazine, Oshawa This Week, 680 News, Toronto Star, TSN, and many others.

The paramedic field is emotionally draining but, ultimately, rewarding. The individuals who obtain paramedic training and enter the field must: assess the extent of injuries or illness of trauma victims or other patients to determine emergency medical treatment, and administer pre-hospital care; liaise with ambulance dispatch centers, base hospital staff, police, fire, and family members to ensure relevant information is collected; establish and maintain intravenous treatment (IV), apply adjunctive equipment for ventilation and circulation complications, administer medications and provide other emergency treatment to patients; transport patients to a hospital or other medical facility for further medical care; document and record the nature of injuries and treatment provided; and maintain ambulances and emergency care equipment and supplies.

At Centennial College in Toronto, Ont. students can attend a two-year Paramedic program that teaches them all of the above skills through courses that provide theoretical and practical testing components. To enhance student performance and confidence, courses also provide an equal balance between classroom, clinical, field and practical learning in emergency simulations. Lab scenarios are carried out in state-of-the-art lab facilities located in Centennial’s Science and Technology Centre campus. This campus also houses other Community and Health Schools of study such as nursing and pharmacy technician. Specific courses within the Paramedic training include: Pre-hospital Care, Anatomy, Theraputic Communications and Crisis Intervention, Alterations of Human Body Function, Medical Directed Therapuetics & Paramedic Responsibilities, EMS Research Methods, PCP Integration and Critical Decision Making, and more.

Students can now earn a Paramedic diploma from Centennial while working on a four-year bachelor of Science in Para medicine from the University of Toronto at Scarborough (UTSC) or after completing the diploma portion of the program.

Did you know that over the past several years, 96 per cent of the Paramedic program’s graduates were employed as Primary Care Paramedics (PCP)? In addition, graduates of the undertaking are eligible and prepared to take the Ministry of Health exam for Advanced EMCA. They have consistently scored above the provincial average on the Advanced EMCA certification exam. Ministry regulations require this certification for employment as a paramedic in Ontario.

Centennial College expects applicants to present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Applicants must also possess compulsory English 12C or U or equivalent, math 11M or U, or 12C or U or equivalent, Biology 11C or U, or 12 U or equivalent; and one of the following sciences: chemistry 11U, or 12C or U or physics 11U or 12C or U. Medical requirements such as a medical doctor’s statement, certifying a standard of health that is acceptable to Centennial College, clinical and affiliated EMS agencies are also required. Lastly, applicants must also not have been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude (clear vulnerable persons police background record searches are completed throughout the program); hold a Class “F” license, which is required for employment in Ontario (but not for program admission); complete a CPR Level HCP course (Health Care Provider) and standard first aid certification. For complete details on the requirements of this undertaking, visit Centennial’s Paramedic program admission page.

Character and level designers, character and 3D modelers/texture artists, concept and environments and effects artists, character animators and game concept artists are just some of the positions available to those who have graduated from a post-secondary level game design program. Schools Game design starts with an idea, which may fall within one or several genres. The game designer usually produces an initial game proposal document containing the concept, game play, feature list, setting and story, target audience, requirements and schedule, staff and budget estimates. From there, production begins with each game professional contributing his or her talents at different stages. For example, the Level Designer creates the levels that build upon skills of the gamer. This person must plan how the player interacts with the game to move onto the next level. Meanwhile, Character Animator, who is the “actor” behind the performance.

At Centennial College, students who have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or are 19 years of age or older, may apply for its Game Art and Design program. In addition to this requirement, they will also have to have completed the compulsory English 12C or U credit, a skills assessment or equivalent. Another requirement is a portfolio assessment. Pieces may include 10 to 15 life drawings, sketches, paintings, sculptures or digitally produced artwork. Preference for the game design program will be given to applicants who can demonstrate some familiarity with one or more graphics applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, 3DS Max or Maya. If one does not submit digital artwork, he or she will be tested to determine your level of computer proficiency.

This 14-month undertaking offers its students hands-on training, which teaches them how to build 2D and 3D art assets for games, develop game environment and characters and express their one-of-a-kind creativity. Because industry professionals and instructors developed the game design program, the curriculum has a uniquely combined emphasis on both game design and creative story development skills. Specific lecture-based courses include Game Theory (gives students an overview of the gaming industry and includes a discussion of the history of games, an exploration of different game genres and platforms, as well as in-depth lectures on story development for different game platforms) and Social History of Design (introduces students to the history of design and encourages analytical thinking about the development of design form in human communication). Meanwhile, hands-on learning in the game design program is obtained through courses such as: Drawing for 3D Modeling and Animation, Character Design, Digital Painting, Post Effects and Material Editing, Lighting, 3D Modelling and Texturing, and many others.

Additional hands-on training occurs via a field placement in the last semester of the game design program. As part of the professional experience, students are expected to send their portfolios to the company of their choice in order to show their work. Once they are accepted into their chosen field placement, students are exposed to the world of design where they will work alongside professionals obtaining new knowledge and applying what they have learned in the game design program.

Graphic Design program graduates find lucrative positions with design and advertising companies, magazine design firms, packaging design studios, marketing and communications agencies, publishing companies, newspaper departments and TV production facilities. One of these graphic design courses is offered at Centennial College in the form of a two-year program that sees you: develop your visual design skills for print, emphasizing visual fundamentals, creative problem solving skills and the ability to deliver effective communication solutions for corporate clients including motion design; emerge with multidisciplinary creative skills for today’s diverse and demanding industry; work directly with internal and external clients on projects, simulating the workplace demands of the industry in a practical and hands-on approach. “Graduates that possess strong practical knowledge and good design skills coupled with emphasis on producing high work are always sought after in the graphics industry,” says Jim Jackson, Graphic Design Specialist, Marketing Department, AXA Insurance.

To apply for Centennial College’s offering, you must be able to present an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or being 19 years of age or older. In addition, you should have completed the compulsory English 12C or U credit, or skills assessment, or equivalent. Lastly you are required to submit a portfolio that contains up to 15 pieces of original work in art and design. It must demonstrate an ability and interest in graphic design, colour integrated designs created in digital illustration and digital imaging applications, and a short research paper about your design philosophy and field of interest.

Formally recognized by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario (RGD Ontario), which represents more than 3,000 graphic designers, managers, educators and students across Ontario, this graphic design diploma program covers business and creative topics. Specific courses within the Graphic Design course include: Design Process (you will research content of virtual and client-oriented projects introduced during the program, generate ideas for these projects and develop them into strong graphic images through concept, multiple solution and refinement); Design & Imaging (introduces three major software applications used throughout the Graphic Media Design program: digital illustration, imaging and layout application); Packaging (you will analyze the structure and meaning of graphics in packaging and develop an understanding of environmental implications), and many others such as Motion Graphics, Web Design, and Illustration Workshop.

The combination of multidisciplinary design skills and practical experience sets graduates apart from the competition. Centennial graduates are more flexible and their design solutions therefore offer more effective solutions those without this experience.

“This is a hands-on program and the slogan I have for the Fine Arts Studio program is ‘Get your hands dirty,’” says David McKilmen. coordinator of the Fine Arts Studio program at Centennial College, in which students receive a fine arts education, “because you’re definitely going to get your hands dirty with charcoal paint, clay and more. When you apply, book yourself an appointment to come meet with me and bring your portfolio. I’m looking for two things. On the technical side. I am looking for people who have had experience drawing and painting. And I have to say, for me, what’s important is some sense of commitment, passion, dedication to the fine arts.”

David offers a great overview of what is expected of students but let’s take a closer look at the specific benefits of this Fine Arts Studio offering. First and foremost, to apply to the two-year program, students must have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. They also need to have the compulsory English 12C or U or skills assessment or equivalent credit. However, possession of minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the school Fine Arts Studio program. There also artistic requirements that students must meet, such as attending a program admission session and presenting a portfolio of no less than four and no more than 15 pieces. Within the portfolio, students are encouraged to have figure drawings, colour work (abstract, figurative or objective), perspective (demonstration of your ability to apply basic principles of linear perspective in free-hand drawing and or painting), and sketchbooks.

This unique fine arts education program allows students to: develop advanced skills to work independently both in and out of the studio environment and nurture a lifetime of growth as a professional visual artist and storyteller; have a progressive learning experience led by a collaborative team of teachers who share a commitment to the central philosophy of excellence through meaningful skills development; develop personal directions and approaches to build their own unique voice and style in visual storytelling; find inspired new careers paths in the art world as exhibiting artists or in the visual art industries including animation, illustration and design.

This is achieved through a number of courses such as: Figure Drawing, Drawing + Composition, Paining Techniques, 3D Figure Modeling, History of World Art from Prehistoric to 17th Century, Figure Painting, Digital Art, Drawing Painting and Thesis and more. All classes are held in two large state-of-the-art studios and include aspects such as art-relevant lectures, seminars and excursions that are offered throughout the school year. Small class sizes guarantee one-on-one attention from instructors. Classes are three to six hours in duration. Mural seminars and an illustration class to broaden students’ job skills are also available.

The fine arts education received in the program allows students seamless entry into more specialized art-based program such as Digital Animation, Graphic Design, Game Design and more.

“Enrolling in the Arts and Design Foundations program at Centennial College was the best gift I could have given myself,” says Carol Ronney, a 2000 graduate. “I had worked as a professional photographer for many years and wanted to expand my art experiences and theory. This program gave me hands-on exposure to all forms and levels of visual art and there was step-by-step encouragement and support from the staff and faculty throughout.” Carol is just one example of a person who benefits from attending this art design college program. Other people who might benefit, include: those who need to build their portfolio and become prepared for more specialized programs in Digital Animation, Interactive Digital Media, Fine Arts Studio, Game Design or Graphic Design Media; those who want to have a career as a studio artist but want a solid foundation; and those who want to move onto university. Qualified graduates of the design foundation undertaking may be eligible to participate in an articulated program with selected universities, institutes and professional associations. These partnerships allow graduates to apply academic credit towards further study. Centennial College’s program partners include: Athabasca University, professional arts degree (Communication Studies) andRyerson University (Image Arts).

Established in 1974, this program is a unique blend of traditional and digital art that will prepare students with the critical basics for a career in art and design, animation and game design. This blend includes specific courses such as: Portfolio Development (students will enhance artwork created in other courses into useful portfolio elements and complete a self-directed assignment as a portfolio element); Colour Studio (uses a workshop/studio approach to examine the practice and theory of colour as used by artists and designers); Introduction to Figure Drawing (introductory course in drawing from the human figure involves fine art and technical approaches. Students will be given opportunities to develop drawing skills in a number of media and to apply traditional freehand drawing techniques); and more.

Students of this art design college program study out of the renowned Centre for Creative Communications campus, which is located in Canada’s cultural and artistic centre and offers extensive facilities. Among the facilities are large art studios and technologically advanced computer labs. The courses within the program are lead by industry professionals, who are able to offer students insight into the industry from their personal experiences. A dynamic working relationship between faculty and students is encouraged.

Students applying to the two-semester Art and Design Foundation Studies program are required to present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. The other academic requirement is compulsory English 12C or U, or skills assessment or equivalent. However, possession of minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission. Student will be placed in the appropriate English level based on skills assessment results.

In 1901, Guglielmo Marconi changed the way the world communicates when he conducted the first successful transatlantic experimental radio communication. This was a breakthrough in the way people heard news from faraway places and communicated with one another. Today, radio broadcasting employs millions of people around the world in varying positions (writers, producers, production crews and studio executives, among others) as it continues to use the airwaves to share everything from music to sports games and, of course, news. In addition to radio broadcast, television broadcasts and film are also used as popular mediums. In order to enter one of the many positions available in radio broadcast (or the other areas), students should attend a post-secondary broadcasting school.

At Centennial College in Toronto, Ont. students can attend a three-year Broadcasting and Film undertaking, which not only covers radio but TV and film as well. “I would not be sitting here at CityTV without the Broadcasting and Film program. Centennial allowed me to try every aspect of the film, TV [and radio] industry,” revealed Shannon Loftus a 2004 graduate who today works as a unit assistant at CityLine/ City TV. But what makes Centennial College’s broadcasting school so special? Let’s take a closer look.

In the undertaking students: develop a balance between the artistic and commercial aspects of the industry and become exposed to a variety of industry practices and players; gain experience in the school’s unique HDTV broadcasting studios and the Centennial College Wallace studios; spend 15 weeks in a full-time industry field placement; participate in student films and TV, as well as the JOURNAL, a student-produced newsmagazine TV show that airs live and online; and more. Priceless experiences also occur through broadcasting school courses such as: Radio Production (provides students with general information on the structure and operation of radio stations, production companies and other related companies); On-Air Promotions (offers an A to Z guide to being a successful on air promotions television producer); Broadcast Career Management (this class is based on a combination of classroom instruction, weekend workshops and one-on-one visits with the course supervisor); and more.

In order to apply, students must have completed at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. They must also have completed compulsory English 12C or U, or a skills assessment, or equivalent. In addition potential students will have to attend an admission session, complete a writing test, prove their English proficiency and present a portfolio of work. The portfolio should demonstrate their skill and ability to tell a story using two of the following: videotape/ DVD, audiotape/ CD/ mini disc/ digital images/ photographic prints, scripted material in any format that was used. For more detailed information, visit the broadcasting school page.

Project manager, digital media production; interactive technical producer, museum and instructional design; producer, digital signage networks; user experience designer, consumer electronics; software designer, embedded systems; mobile communications application developer. These are just a few of the jobs available in Media Engineering Design Integration (MEDI) to those with media education from Centennial College. But what exactly is this field? In it, robotics technology, the power of mobile Internet and 3D cinematic storytelling are combined with the next generation of media and entertainment experiences. Professionals in this industry are in high demand by media technology developers, media publishers and media producers.

The first media education courses of its sort, the Media Engineering Design Integration program at Centennial College brings together the School of Communications, Media and Design and School of Engineering, Technology and Applied Science. In the process, it merges two diverse groups of students with different strengths and weaknesses. To bring the groups of engineering technology and media design professionals to a level of equivalence, students will be expected to qualify for advanced standing in two courses in their respective disciplines in the first semester.

Focused on the design, production and management of innovative media products, the media studies courses in this program include application development and content creation for wireless devices, interactive museum and retail installations, digital signage systems and networks and more. Media studies courses include topics such as introduction to media engineering, video production and sound design, media electronics, the marketing cycle, content management and much more. In addition, laboratory practice with PLCs, robotics, sensors, electronics and network technology is a key component. Many of the courses include project-based training, lectures and laboratory experience. Specific courses include: Video Production and Sound Design (introduces students to the best practices of video producers, editors and audio designers in the creation of digital media productions); Math and Electrical Fundamentals (a theory and lab course that introduces students to the fundamental principles and theorems of D C and A C series and parallel circuits); Content Management (introduces principles underlying the major systems of content management for the collection and dissemination of information within organizations, and the management of editorial content for digital publishing enterprises); and many others.

To complement their in-school media education, in their final semester, students spend 15 weeks, three days a week, in a field placement working alongside professional staff in a media production environment or media engineering technology firm. This work placement is facilitated by the faculty, and will be determined based on the students’ project work and in consultation with the host companies. Classroom and project work will be coordinated with the placement. Project advance meetings for the work placement relationship will have begun during the second term, so that students will be able to make a positive contribution during their placement.

To apply to this post-graduate certificate program with its array of media studies courses, students must submit an official transcript that demonstrates proof of successful completion of a post-secondary diploma or degree program. In addition, there are also non-academic requirements such as a program information session or portfolio review. Please note that Centennial will consider people presenting a partial post-secondary education (eight college or university credits) in media production or engineering technology.

For those who have attended strategic management programs, such as the one offered by Centennial College, the career possibilities include a variety of options, including: accounting supervisor, accounting manager, assistant controller, controller and business analyst. In addition to the career options are a number of setting options that professionals can choose from depending on their interests — such as financial institutions, government offices, public accounting firms, manufacturing industries, service industries, and small business. Strategic management programs graduates also have the ability to operate through self-employment. Despite the different titles and duties, there are some commonalities among all professionals in strategic management. For example, they all must be able to provide advice on financial decisions, prepare and maintain financial reports, keep financial records up-to-date, train and manage new accountants, perform daily banking requirements, and more.

Attending Centennial College gives students the cutting-edge for a variety of reasons. During the short, intensive time they spend in the strategic management in accounting program, students: cover all the key areas of management; use case studies and simulations; gain experience in leading-edge managerial and leadership practices of the best companies in the world; have hands-on exposure to the latest technology applications in the area of management information systems, including ERP systems; and more. In addition, a team of professors with strong academic backgrounds and extensive business and management experience delivers the undertaking.

Through the strategic management program, participants gain a perspective on the organizational techniques required for the effective execution of strategic decisions, and the critical role that managerial leadership plays in the viability and growth of the business. Students will continue to learn and deepen their understanding in the areas of financial accounting, management accounting, taxation and auditing. Specific courses covered in the one-year program include: Advanced Managerial Accounting (topics include relevant costing, capital budgeting, transfer pricing, balanced scorecard, inventory management, variance and profitability, analysis, performance measurement and compensation, and more); Accounting Theory and Policy (practical and theoretical problems of the present value model, foreign exchange accounting, the process and issues related to standard setting, agency theory and other topics relevant to current events are discussed); Advanced Financial Management (emphasizes consolidations, foreign currency transactions and operations, and non for profit and government organizations); and more.

Please note that this program is designed for students who have already taken an undergrad program. Those who are interested in applying must submit an official transcript demonstrating proof of successful completion of a post-secondary advanced diploma or degree in an accounting discipline. However, if applicants have a combination of partial post-secondary education and relevant work experience, they may also be considered. Other non-academic requirements include: an interview, transcript and resumé review as well as an English and/or math skills assessment. English proficiency will also be considered.

When students graduate from the strategic management program, they have a variety of options. First, they can go on to obtain an MBA, pursuant to the articulation agreement negotiated by the School of Business with other institutions. In addition, students can apply to CGA-Ontario, and depending on their academic background, may receive up to 4 levels of CGA transfer credits.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Centennial College has a variety of marketing programs, including Business – Marketing, which is completed in two years and combines the business and marketing skills that professionals need to be employable upon graduation. Graduates of Centennial College’s business marketing programs are prepared for careers as: sales representatives, customer service representatives, product consultants, merchandising assistants and merchandising supervisors. They work in the areas of the high-tech sector, government, not-for-profit organizations, financial services, food and beverage, electronics and more — along with with almost a third of all North Americans who are employed in marketing related fields.

In order for a company to sell its products effectively, it must know its customer base. Without knowing if consumers are satisfied or if prices are applicable for the consumers the company is targeting, a company will fail. This is where the field of marketing comes in. Conducted at several levels, marketing includes: market research (which starts the marketing process), brand management, advertising, promotions, public relations, customer service and product support reps, merchandising assistance, and even sales.A marketer answers questions like: Who are our customers? What are their needs? How can we best meet these needs? How should we price, package, distribute and promote our product?

At Centennial College, the Marketing program encourages mastery of a marketer’s key competencies — creative, practical decision-making and clear, persuasive communications. Students have an opportunity to learn the basics of business — accounting, operations, organizational behaviour and international business — which serve as an important foundation for the marketing courses that follow. They’ll be introduced to marketing theory and case-based problem-solving, as well as marketing communications (which includes advertising and promotion) and professional selling practices. The College’s interactive teaching approach incorporates learning through case studies, guest lectures, presentations, projects and computer simulations and technologies. Specific marketing courses in this program include: Marketing Communications, Professional Selling, Practical Applications in Marketing, Business Analysis, Principles of Marketing and more.

Please note that all four semesters of this marketing program are identical to the first four semesters of Centennial College’s three-year, six-semester Marketing program. This permits graduates of this program to benefit from a seamless transition into the three-year undertaking, should they wish to continue with a more in-depth study of the field.

Applicants interested in applying for the business marketing degree at Centennial College, must present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Compulsory English 12C or U and Math11C, M, or U or 12C or U credit or skills assessment, or equivalent are also required. However, possession of minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the program.